Even though Duchess Kate had no experience working with royal engagements, there were many signs of her future as a princess. Rather than choosing a glamorous new outfit for her big day, she chose an old coat from her wardrobe. This is what I wore when I visited Catherine Hooker’s Court five years ago. cheltenham gold cup.

The Duchess also chose a Vivian Sheriff fascinator made from pheasant feathers and buttons with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers symbol. Some things truly never change. Kate chose earrings by Kiki McDonough, a brand that remains one of her most treasured jewelers (15 years later, Kate also wore a pair of citrines from the same brand during her outing in Wales on Thursday).

In his speech, Prince William said: “I speak to her and she speaks.” fun Bit”, suggesting that his fiancée was clearly more comfortable addressing the public on a personal level than addressing them as a crowd.

Almost 20 years later, the Princess of Wales is as adept at royal engagements as ever. She didn’t look nervous as she stepped out on that gloomy February 26th on Anglesey, but looking back it’s still impressive to see how far the future queen had come.